COVENTRY Blaze star Russ Cowley is eyeing up the new season confident that his side can pack a punch in the battle for honours.

Cowley had a break out season last year, earning the players’ and coach’s player of the season award following a switch to centre.

And after recharging his batteries in the off season, he is back in gym and looking forward to the challenges ahead.

Cowley said he likes the look of the new look Blaze squad, sponsored by Coventry Plumbing and Heating.

“I think Thommo has added strength where needed from last year. Signing Greg Owen is a boost to our British contingency and adds good depth. He has brought in some tough defencemen and we have a good balance, not to mention a great goalie in Peter Hirsch. I think our powerplay will be great next year too.

“I am excited about the league because it looks a lot more consistent throughout all the teams. Last year there was a clear disparity between some of the top teams to the bottom, but now it looks like each game is going to be a battle. It makes it much more fun and exciting for the players and the fans.”

Cowley is looking forward to continuing with centre as his main position. “I had a lot of fun last season playing centre and it suited my game really well. I will play on the wing when needed as it might be the case for different games depending on what Thommo is looking for. But I love playing centre and it’s certainly my preferred position.”

Such is the depth of resources that there’s every chance that Cowley will start on the third unit of forwards, with Owen a candidate for centering Greg Chambers and Luke Fulghum.

“I think Greg and I are very similar. We are both good two-way centres that bring good energy and read the game well. We are both good at taking draws which gives you more control of the puck during games.”

If Cowley does go on the third line, he will be alongside warrior Danny Stewart and also Joe Henry, who is being given the change to claim the ninth forward slot for himself after serving as an apprentice in the Blaze ranks. Cowley had to make a similar move several years ago as he progressed from being a two-way player with Swindon to a regular in the side.

Cowley said: “Joe has got a really good hockey brain. I think he certainly needs to play in order to improve, which is the case for anyone of his age.

“He needs to play without fear and that’s what I will try and encourage him to do. Playing without fear is key to bringing out the potential in any player.”